
When exploring wooded areas, you might notice trees adorned with spray paint in various colors, symbols, letters, or numbers. These markings often serve as a coded system employed by landowners—both public and private—to indicate the intended fate of a tree. Discover the significance behind these color-coded signals.
Interpreting Spray Paint Marks on Trees
It’s important to note that the colors, symbols, and their interpretations can vary widely. This inconsistency arises because there is no standardized color-coding system universally adopted by states, municipalities, landowners, or even the U.S. Forest Service (USFS).
As explained by Bill Cook, a forester and biologist with the Michigan State University Extension, the spray paint on trees in forests frequently signifies timber sale contract details. Trees designated for timber harvesting are typically marked at chest height and near the stump, sometimes on one or both sides, he notes.
Understanding the significance of paint colors on trees
While the interpretations of paint colors can vary by region, here are some of the most frequently used colors and symbols seen spray-painted on trees, along with their potential meanings:
Orange or Yellow: Trees marked for future harvesting
Blue: Often indicates property boundaries
Purple: In numerous states, a vertical or square purple mark on trees or fenceposts serves as a “No Trespassing” warning
White circle: Signifies the presence of an endangered species inhabiting the tree
Red: Marks the boundary of USFS land or the perimeter of a timber sale, particularly on extensive properties like public or corporate land
Black: Used to correct errors by covering previous markings
If you encounter a tree on or near your property marked with spray paint and it wasn’t done by someone in your household, the best course of action is to reach out to your local extension office. They can clarify the meaning of the color and marking and advise if any further steps are necessary.